Lift truck Truck Training Course
Operators must undergo training on an industrial-powered lift truck, or forklift to be given forklift driver certification. The training course should be specific to the lift truck type and attachments that you will be using on the job site. Training must also reflect the atmosphere wherein you will be working. Forklift safety must be a main concern for both the trainer and the operator trainee.
General Qualifications
Anyone utilizing a lift truck should undergo training and certification prior to assuming operator duties. Basic qualifications for using a forklift include an age of at least 18 years and the physical capacity to safely operate and control the unit.
Pedestrian Safety
The top concern of any lift truck operator should be the safety of pedestrians. Pedestrians in the vicinity of the lift truck are at risk of injury or death from getting hit by the machinery or its additions. Pedestrians must always have the right of way, and lift truck operators must honk their horns when working near pedestrians or at crosswalks or intersections.
Weather Conditions
Lots of accidents involving lift trucks take place at loading docks. These areas become dangerous if rain leaks in through open dock doors resulting in an extremely slippery floor. Wet floor conditions create a hazard and drivers must be aware of possible dangers when working in loading dock areas.
Certification
Forklift certification courses include a combination of practical training and classroom instruction tailored to the specific requirements of the workplace. Training should be completed on the forklift type and attachments that will be utilized by the trainee in the workplace.
Mishaps
On average, there is approximately 100 deaths attributed to forklift mishaps, while over 100,000 are injured by forklifts. The majority of these accidents can be avoided with attention to safety and proper operator training.